HR leaders are facing a burnout crisis: How to cope and thrive in 2023
HR leaders ranked the highest among other professionals when it comes to two key burnout metrics, according to Executive Networks’ 2023 Future of Working and Learning Report released Thursday.
According to a survey of more than 1,300 HR leaders, business leaders, knowledge workers and frontline workers across the globe, HR leaders were substantially more likely than others to be at risk of leaving their current employer in the next 12 months.
The report also found that HR leaders were the most likely to report feeling overwhelmed by their workload, with 62% saying they often or always felt this way, compared to 49% of business leaders, 44% of knowledge workers and 37% of frontline workers.
These findings are not surprising, given the unprecedented challenges and demands that HR leaders have faced in the past two years. From managing the transition to remote work, to supporting employee well-being and engagement, to navigating the hybrid work model and the great resignation, HR leaders have been at the forefront of shaping and implementing the future of work.
But while HR leaders have been busy taking care of others, who has been taking care of them?
The report suggests that HR leaders need more support and recognition from their organizations and peers, as well as more opportunities for learning and development. It also highlights some strategies that HR leaders can use to cope with burnout and thrive in their roles in 2023 and beyond.
Here are some of them:
– Seek feedback and appreciation. HR leaders often feel underappreciated and undervalued for their contributions, especially when they are dealing with complex and sensitive issues. The report recommends that HR leaders seek feedback and appreciation from their stakeholders, such as senior leaders, managers and employees, and celebrate their successes and achievements. This can help boost their confidence and motivation, as well as demonstrate their impact and value to the organization.
– Build a network of peers and mentors. HR leaders can benefit from having a network of peers and mentors who can offer advice, support and guidance on various HR topics and challenges. The report suggests that HR leaders join professional associations, online communities, and peer groups, where they can exchange best practices, learn from each other’s experiences and find solutions to common problems. They can also seek mentors within or outside their organization who can provide coaching, feedback, and career development opportunities.
– Invest in learning and development. HR leaders need to keep up with the latest trends and innovations in the field of HR and the future of work. The report advises that HR leaders invest in learning and development programs that can help them acquire new skills, knowledge and competencies that are relevant to their role and goals. They can also leverage online platforms, podcasts, webinars, and books to access diverse sources of information and inspiration.
– Prioritize self-care and well-being. HR leaders need to take care of themselves physically, mentally and emotionally, as burnout can have serious consequences for their health and performance. The report recommends that HR leaders practice self-care and well-being habits, such as setting boundaries, managing stress, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, eating healthily and engaging in hobbies and activities that bring them joy. They can also seek professional help if they are struggling with mental health issues or emotional distress.
– Delegate and empower others. HR leaders cannot do everything by themselves, nor should they try to. The report suggests that HR leaders delegate and empower others to take on some of their tasks and responsibilities, such as managers, team members or external partners. This can help reduce their workload, free up their time for strategic work and foster a culture of trust and collaboration.
HR leaders are essential for the success of any organization in the future of work. But they also need to take care of themselves and their own needs. By following these strategies, HR leaders can cope with burnout and thrive in their roles in 2023.
About the Author.
Ratnesh Jain is an entrepreneur, mentor & author.
IIM Ahmedabad alumni with 30+ years of professional and entrepreneurship experience. Past 17 years in Executive search & Growth consulting.
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